Introduction The IDEAL framework for the evaluation of surgical robotic systems (SRSs) emphasizes the need for new human factors research design. This observational qualitative study aims to assess variations in system utility and workspace analysis, when using the Versius SRS for colorectal surgery in Edinburgh, United Kingdom.

Methods Observations of Versius SRS cases have been underway since April 2022, with a focus on identifying action patterns. Semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders spanning three perspectives: clinical, industry, and evaluation, are underway. Fieldnotes and interview data are being analysed using inductive thematic analysis to capture from the field intervention stabilisation most relevant to stage 2a and 2b IDEAL considerations.

Results Three routine phases for robotic cases are identified: set-up, co-use, and debrief. Emerging thematic narratives reveal key failure mechanisms from set-up configurations, resulting in downstream flow disruptions and possible system abandonment. Potential solutions include dedicated set-up configuration templating, and SRS specific ergonomic descriptors in case reporting debrief.

Conclusions Identifying three routine phases of robotic surgery facilitates context specific failure analysis and the discovery of operational challenge mechanisms. This research design provides a scalable model to further qualitative studies which aim to capture and describe human factors from the field.